Can I Pay My American Express Bill At Costco?

American Express is one of the most popular and widely-accepted credit cards in the world With millions of cardholders, AmEx offers great rewards, benefits, and superior customer service. However, when it comes to paying your AmEx bill, not every location accepts their cards This includes warehouse giant Costco.

Costco’s Payment Policies

Costco only accepts Visa credit cards for payment in their warehouses and gas stations. This is due to their exclusive partnership with Visa. Costco shoppers can use Visa credit cards, debit cards, cash, checks, EBT, and mobile payments like Apple Pay. However, no American Express cards are allowed as a form of payment.

Back in 2015 Costco made the switch from American Express to Visa. So AmEx is no longer accepted at any of their 500+ warehouse locations in the United States and Puerto Rico. This applies to both in-store and gas station purchases.

The payment methods accepted at Costco include:

• Visa credit cards
• Visa debit cards
• Cash
• Checks
• Costco Shop Cards
• Costco membership cards
• EBT cards
• Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay)

Costco might not accept AmEx directly, but there are still ways to pay your bill.

Online & Mobile Payments

The easiest way to pay your American Express bill is online through their website or mobile app. You can log into your account, select the card you want to pay, input the payment amount, and submit it digitally. This can be done through your bank account, another credit card, AmEx rewards points, or other sources.

Online payments are free, fast, and can be done anytime. You can pay your AmEx bill in full, make the minimum payment, or pay a custom amount. The online service is available 24/7 so you can pay your bill on your schedule.

You can also set up autopay with American Express to have your bill paid for you every month. This ensures you never miss a payment due date.

Pay By Phone

In addition to digital payments, American Express offers a pay by phone option. You can call their toll-free customer service line anytime and make a payment over the phone. The automated system will walk you through the process step-by-step.

To pay your AmEx bill over the phone, call 1-800-472-9297. You’ll need to enter your card details like account number, expiration date, and security code. Then specify the amount you want to pay and authorize the transaction.

Speaking with a live representative is also available during normal business hours if you need assistance paying your bill.

Pay By Mail

If you prefer to mail in your American Express payment, you can send a check or money order. Make sure to include your account number and the payment slip from your bill. Send your mailed payment to the address listed on your statement.

To ensure your mailed payment is received before the due date, it’s best to put it in the mail at least 5-7 business days in advance. Payments received after the due date will incur a late fee, plus interest charges on the remaining balance.

Pay At Other Retailers

While Costco itself does not allow AmEx payments, there are still many other retailers that do accept American Express cards for bill payments. This includes grocery stores, pharmacies, convenience stores, banks, and more.

Look for locations near you that display American Express signage or ask the cashier if AmEx is accepted for bill pay. You can then swipe your card and specify the payment is for your AmEx account. The funds will be transferred and credited to your account.

Third-Party Payment Services

You also have the option to use third-party bill pay services like Plastiq. They allow you to use a credit card or other payment method to pay bills not normally accepted by that provider. There is a processing fee, but it enables you to pay anywhere.

These services essentially mail a check on your behalf after you submit the digital payment. While pricier than standard options, it does provide more flexibility.

Manage Your Account Responsibly

However you choose to pay your monthly American Express bill, be sure to do so on time and in full each billing cycle. This will help you avoid interest charges, late fees, and damage to your credit scores. Monitor your account regularly and set payment reminders as needed.

Consider enrolling in autopay or keep track of your due date on a calendar. Setting up alerts through your AmEx account is another great option. Staying on top of your payment obligations is essential, even when shopping at retailers like Costco that don’t directly accept American Express.

Costco Credit Card

As a Costco member, you also have the option to apply for their official credit card. The Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi offers generous rewards on Costco purchases and at gas stations. With no annual fee and other perks, it’s a nice compliment to your everyday American Express card.

This way you can maximize savings at Costco with their Visa card, while still enjoying the robust benefits that AmEx provides. Having both cards enables you to take advantage of the best features each one offers.

The Bottom Line

The key is staying organized with your finances, tracking due dates closely, and paying on time, every time. Avoid late fees and credit damage by taking responsibility for your American Express account. Utilize the flexible, convenient payment options available and you’ll have no issues – even without paying your bill directly at Costco.